Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Polymyalgia
Polymyalgia rheumatica is a chronic condition that causes widespread muscle pain, stiffness, and inflammation, particularly around the shoulders, hips, and upper arms. It commonly affects older adults and can significantly reduce daily mobility and quality of life. Physiotherapy is an effective approach to help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and restore function through tailored exercises, manual therapy, and lifestyle management.
What is Polymyalgia?
The word polymyalgia comes from the Greek terms "poly" (many), "myo" (muscles), and "algia" (pain). It refers to aching, stiffness, and tenderness that affect multiple large muscles. The condition primarily involves the shoulder and hip girdles, causing pain in the shoulders, upper arms, hips, and thighs. Unlike fibromyalgia, which is related to nervous system pain perception, polymyalgia rheumatica is caused by inflammation within the muscles and surrounding soft tissues
What Causes Polymyalgia?
The exact cause of polymyalgia is still unclear, but medical experts suggest it may be linked to immune system dysfunction, genetic predisposition, or inflammatory changes that occur with aging. Stress, fatigue, and other autoimmune conditions can also trigger or worsen symptoms. Some patients experience flare-ups that appear suddenly, while others notice a gradual worsening of stiffness and pain over several months.
Symptoms of Polymyalgia
Polymyalgia symptoms can vary in intensity but are usually worse in the morning. Key symptoms include:
- Muscle pain and stiffness in shoulders, upper arms, hips, and thighs
- Inflammation and swelling in soft tissues or joints
- Severe morning stiffness lasting over an hour
- Fatigue, low energy, and general weakness
- Depression and mood changes
- Night sweats and disturbed sleep
- Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss
Patients may struggle with basic movements like raising their arms, getting out of bed, or standing up from a chair due to stiffness and muscle pain. Symptoms often ease throughout the day with activity but can return after periods of rest.
Physiotherapy for Polymyalgia
Physiotherapy is a cornerstone in the management of polymyalgia rheumatica. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, restore joint mobility, and maintain overall strength and endurance. A physiotherapist will assess your individual condition and design a personalised treatment plan.
Common physiotherapy treatments include:
- Pain modalities such as heat, ice, ultrasound, or TENS to reduce discomfort
- Manual therapy and massage to relieve muscle tightness and improve circulation
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain mobility and prevent deconditioning
- Hydrotherapy for gentle movement with less joint strain
- Posture correction and proprioception exercises to reduce stress on inflamed muscles
- Relaxation and stress management techniques to improve sleep and mental wellbeing
- Acupuncture to stimulate natural pain relief and reduce inflammation
- Education and lifestyle advice including diet, rest management, and activity pacing
Summary
Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory muscle condition that mainly affects older adults, causing widespread stiffness, aching, and fatigue. The condition is not fully understood, but immune dysfunction, aging, and genetic factors are likely contributors. Although symptoms can severely impact daily life, physiotherapy offers significant relief by reducing pain, improving movement, and restoring function. With a structured exercise plan, manual therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, patients can regain independence and improve their quality of life.
To arrange a physiotherapy appointment , please email us at admin@acephysiosports.com or call +65 81535374.
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